Note: Applications for the OHH Change-Out Pilot Program will be accepted through February 22, 2013. After this time, check the program web site for information regarding future solicitations.

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) and the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) are offering the Commonwealth Outdoor Hydronic Heater (OHH) Change-Out Pilot Program to replace older or improperly operated OHH systems (also known as outdoor wood boilers). For the purposes of this program, the definition of an OHH is a fuel burning device designed to burn wood or other approved solid fuels as an outdoor installation (or installed in a structure not meant for human occupation) which heats a building and/or water.

The program provides funding for the replacement of older or improperly operated OHH systems based, with a focus on systems that:

demonstrate a threat to public health and safety

proximity of the system to other properties, or to sensitive populations

population density of the area

have demonstrated past operation of the existing unit in accordance with state regulations

are replaceable with a Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) approved system, or a system with air quality improvement

Other criteria may be considered. Projects must owned by commercial, agricultural, or residential entities served by one of the investor-owned electric distribution utilities in Massachusetts -- Fitchburg Gas and Electric Light (Unitil), Massachusetts Electric (National Grid), Nantucket Electric (National Grid), NSTAR Electric, or Western Massachusetts Electric. In addition, customers of any Municipal Light Plant (MLP) Department that pays into the RET are eligible (Ashburnham, Holden, Holyoke, Russel, and Templeton).

Replacement systems meet all local Board of Health requirements, all Massachusetts Air Quality regulations, and either listed on the MassDEP web site or demonstrate an equal or greater air quality improvement to the listed systems. Systems may not be operated in such a way that causes air pollution or other nuisance, and must be operated in such a way that is in compliance with all local regulations. Systems must also be sized appropriate for the application. See the program web site or use the contact below for application materials and further information regarding system requirements and eligibility.